It is with extreme sadness that we announce the passing of Kelly Marie Bauer in Fort Collins. She fought cancer to the end, but finally lost her battle on Feb. 21 at the age of 44.

She was born September 2, 1977 in Kimball, Neb. She graduated from Pine Bluffs High school in 1995. She attended Laramie County Community College and the University of Wyoming. She was a cowgirl, through and through.

When Kelly met her best friend, Mark Bauer, they knew right away they were meant to be together. With a shared love for everything Disney and the ability to bring out the best in each other they married March 10, 2015. The special bond they had and love for each other was extremely apparent to those around them.

Kelly was a loving daughter to James and Marlene (Gade) Svenkesen. She admired her parents-in-law, Robert (Bob) and Phyllis Bauer. She was an amazing sister to Casey Shelton and Joni Biebighauser. She had two brother-in-laws and a sister-in-law who loved her dearly, Jack Shelton, Mark Biebighauser, and Abby Zehr. Kelly was also a Godmother and loving Aunt to Kristen, Andrew, and Lauren Biebighauser. Kelly always adored her fur babies as well. She leaves behind their dog, Calvin Bauer, and has joined her dogs Steve Bauer and Squiggy Svenkesen in heaven. Family was always a priority to her and she never missed a chance to see them. Kelly’s family will treasure those memories forever. She always worked hard to keep them all together even when distance kept them apart.

Kelly worked as the assistant director of scholarships at Colorado State University. She was a leader, employee, coworker, and friend to her entire team. Her contribution, dedication, and hard work will always be remembered.

A memorial service is planned at 11 a.m. on March 12, at St. John’s Lutheran Church, 305 E. Elizabeth St., Fort Collins, 80524. In lieu of flowers the family invites you to make a donation to a charity of your choice that cares for animals.